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Pentax debuts 12 megapixel duo: Optio M85 and E85 point-and-shoots
We'll admit -- compared to the ketchup-colored K-x, these two just seem lackluster. And, perhaps they are. But there's still some merit to Pentax introducing a new pair of point-and-shoots, with both the M85 and E85 sporting 12 megapixel CCD sensors and relatively slim bodies. The former can also shoot 720p video and features a 3-inch touchscreen, shake reduction and face detection, while the lower end E85 gets saddled with a 2.7-inch LCD, a VGA movie mode and an awkward feeling of incompetence. Both should be available in Euroland next month for €179 ($263) and €129 ($186), respectively.[Via Engadget German]
GM's Hummer HX: where Halo and E85 meet
We're guessing some nasty memos have been getting passed around at Hummer headquarters lately since consumers have been going ga-ga over fuel efficient vehicles. Something along those lines may explain a concept vehicle introduced by the company at this year's Detroit Auto Show: a smaller, lighter, and E85-capable new SUV dubbed the Hummer HX. GM CEO Rick Wagoner lauded the domestically-produced ethanol-based fuel used in the new design, which rings a number of Halo bells, not unlike the Jeep Renegade concept we've seen recently. The sport-utility rocks a slew of unique features, including an armored underbelly, customizable LED displays, removable fender flares and roof, and lack of a radio or CD player (it's only got an iPod dock). Of course, the car is just for show right now -- but maybe it's a sign that the age of fuel-guzzling Hummers is coming to a close... nah, probably not.
Saab goes double-green with biofuel hybrid
Not a whole lot of details to be getting on with here, but Saab has confirmed that they have plans to produce a vehicle based on their Bio Power Hybrid concept currently showing at the British International Motor Show. The vehicle combines the potential of E85, a fuel blend with 85% bioethanol from plants, with the further emissions reducing, power increasing and cost reducing perks of an electric motor. The hybrid's batteries replace the spare tire compartment in the car's trunk, and since the Bio Power Hybrid uses run-flat tires, there's essentially nothing lost in the trade-off. Saab's Bio Power models have been especially successful in Saab's home market of Sweden, mainly thanks to the large tax breaks they entail, but even while promising a hybrid within the next few years, Saab is clear that the feature won't come cheap.[Via MetaEfficient]
